Secondary parkinsonism is similar to Parkinson's disease , but it is caused by certain medicines, a different nervous system disorder, or another illness.

Alternative Names:

Parkinsonism - secondary

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Parkinson's disease is one of the most common nervous system (neurologic) disorders of the elderly. "Parkinsonism" refers to any condition that causes Parkinson's-type abnormal movements. These movements are caused by changes in or destruction of the nerve cells (neurons) that produce the chemical dopamine in a certain area of the brain.

There have been cases of secondary parkinsonism among intravenous drug users who injected a substance called MPTP, which can be produced when making a form of heroin. These cases are rare and have mostly affected long-term drug users.

Secondary parkinsonism caused by antipsychotics or other medications is usually reversible if identified soon enough. However, it may not be reversible if it is caused by:

Drug-related brain damage

Infections

Toxins

Symptoms:

Symptoms of parkinsonism may include:

Decrease in facial expressions

Difficulty starting and controlling movement

Soft voice

Some types of paralysis

Stiffness of the trunk, arms, or legs

Tremor

Although cognitive problems are not as common in Parkinson's disease, they may be more likely in secondary parkinsonism. This is because the diseases that cause secondary parkinsonism often lead to dementia .

The health care provider may be able to diagnose secondary parkinsonism based on your history, symptoms, and a physical examination . However, the symptoms may be difficult to assess, particularly in the elderly.

Examination may show:

Difficulty starting or stopping voluntary movements

Increased muscle tone

Problems with posture

Slow, shuffling walk (gait)

Tremors of the Parkinson's type

Reflexes are usually normal.

Tests are not usually specific for secondary parkinsonism. However, they may be used to confirm or rule out other disorders that can cause similar symptoms.

Treatment:

Treatment is aimed at controlling symptoms. If the symptoms are mild, no treatment may be needed.

If the condition is caused by a medication, the benefits of the medication should be weighed against the severity of symptoms. Medications should be stopped or changed if the risks outweigh the benefits.

Treating underlying conditions such as stroke or infections can reduce symptoms.

Medications may be used if symptoms interfere with the ability to perform daily activities. The medication, dose, timing, or combination of medications may need to be adjusted as symptoms change.

Many of the medications used to treat this condition can cause severe side effects. Monitoring and follow-up by the health care provider are important. Secondary parkinsonism tends to be less responsive to medical therapy than Parkinson's disease. However, medications are worth trying if the cause of the condition is not treatable.

Medications used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease are:

Levodopa (L-dopa), Sinemet, levodopa and carbidopa (Altamet)

Pramipexole (Mirapex), ropinirole (Requip), bromocriptine (Parlodel)

Selegiline (Eldepryl, Deprenyl), rasagiline (Azilect)

Amantadine or anticholinergic medications (to reduce early or mild tremors)

Discuss the situation with your health care provider if you are unable to care for the person at home (after treatment begins).

Prevention:

Treating conditions that cause secondary parkinsonism may decrease the risk.

Only use medications under a health care provider's supervision. People with conditions (such as schizophrenia ) that require long-term use of antipsychotics should be carefully monitored to prevent the development of secondary parkinsonism. Newer antipsychotic medications are less likely to cause secondary parkinsonism.